Food Technology: Nutritional Properties

The main nutrients are proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Each nutrient has a different purpose. Nutrients Proteins Proteins assist with growth and repair of the body. Proteins are found in animal products like meat, fish, cheese, milk and eggs. Vegetable sources include soya-bean products, pulses and nuts. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are needed to give the body energy. There are two types of carbohydrate starch and sugar. Starch is found in cereals, corn flour, potatoes, pasta and flour. Sugar if found in fruit, vegetables, honey, milk and malt products. Fats Fats help to provide concentrated sources of energy and help to insulate the body in cold weather. There are two main types: Saturated fats are usually obtained from animal sources, for example, butter and lard. The exceptions are coconut and palm oil. Polyunsaturated fats come from vegetable sources, such as sunflower oil. Vitamins

Vitamins are needed in very small amounts for growth and health. The main vitamins are Vitamin A, the B complex of vitamins, Vitamin C and Vitamin D.

Vitamin Vitamin A

Need For -Good Vision -Healthy Skin -Growth

Sources -Green and Yellow vegetables -Dairy products -Breads -Milks -Eggs -Meat -Milk -Yeast

Vitamin B (Thiamin, Riboflavin & Niacin) Vitamin B12

-Release of energy from foods -Healthy Skin -Red Blood Cells

Vitamin C

-Healthly Skin -Protects Cells -Helps Absord Iron

-Fruit -Vegestables

Vitamin D

-Helps absorb calcium - Strong teeth & Bones

-Margarine -Oily Fish

Minerals

Minerals are needed in small amounts to help the body function properly and stay strong. Calcium and iron are two important minerals. Calcium Calcium is needed for the growth of healthy teeth and bones. Sources of calcium include milk, cheese, eggs, wholegrain cereals, green vegetables, bread and tofu. Iron Iron is needed for the formation of red blood cells. Sources of iron include red meat, green vegetables, eggs, lentils and bread. Other Minerals Other minerals that the body needs include potassium, sodium, magnesium and zinc.